Proactive use of perturbation training for balance and posture control in geriatric rehabilitation: An experimental study

Authors

  • Reema Joshi Dr D Y Patil College of Physiotherapy, Pune, India
  • Kinjal Shah Dr D Y Patil College of Physiotherapy, Pune, India

Keywords:

Balance, geriatrics, postural control, rehabilitation

Abstract

Background: Aging is a complex process involving several variables that interact to cause deterioration of various physiological functions, such as low motor function and slow protective reflex.

Objectives: This study aimed to determine the effect of perturbation training on balance and postural control upon center of gravity (COG) sway velocity in the older population using the modified clinical test of sensory integration on balance (m-CTSIB) component of the Neuro Com Balance Master® and Timed Up and Go (TUG) test.

Methods: An experimental study, using a pre-post intervention model, involving 30 individuals aged 65–85 years with mild to moderate fall risk, was conducted at the Pune Tertiary Hospital from August 2022 to January 2023. Perturbation training was given using a tilt board along with conventional exercises for 3 days per week for 4 weeks (12 sessions). Pre–post assessment was done using the M-CTSIB test on the Neuro Com Balance Master® and the TUG test. The paired samples t-test was used for comparing the pre and postintervention measures.

Results: Pre- and postintervention measures on the TUG test and M-CTSIB test on the Neuro Com Balance Master® showed a statistically significant improvement in the TUG values (P < 0.0001) and COG sway velocity under all conditions except on the firm surface with eyes open, with FIEO (P = 0.1208), FIEC (P = 0.0011), FOEO (P = 0.0013), FOEC (P < 0.0001), and composite COG sway velocity (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion: To achieve postural control along with conventional exercises, perturbation training can be effective on proprioception, thus promoting the muscle recruitment pattern, which minimizes loss of balance and increases sway velocity, thereby eventually reducing episodes of fall.

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Published

2024-12-27

How to Cite

1.
Joshi R, Shah K. Proactive use of perturbation training for balance and posture control in geriatric rehabilitation: An experimental study. Chula Med J [internet]. 2024 Dec. 27 [cited 2025 Jan. 30];69(1). available from: https://he05.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/CMJ/article/view/3827